Mid-Atlantic Fishing

Darkhouse Spearfishing

Darkhouse spearfishing, also known as darkhouse or icehouse spearing is one
the oldest forms of fishing. Although darkhouse spearfishing is now prohibited
in most states, it was once common in
the Great Lakes, New England, and parts of the Mid Atlantic region.

Darkhouse Spearfishing History

It is likely that early forms of darkhouse spearfishing were practiced long
before the colonization of the Mid Atlantic region. Early explorers reported
that native Americans harvested fish by laying under a blanket and spearing through
a hole the ice.

By the later part of the 19th century, darkhouse
spearfishing techniques had evolved considerably. Historical reports from the U.S. Fish Commission provide details about
small-scale spear fisheries that once existed in the Great Lakes region, New
York, Vermont, and other areas. Historical fisheries targeted musky and northern
pike, although other species were occasionally taken.

Fishermen utilized a small hut or darkhouse, which as the name implies, was
built to exclude virtually all exterior light sources. Although the space inside
hut was darkened, The water below was illuminated by natural light which
penetrated the surrounding ice.

Inside the hut, a rectangular hole was cut in the ice. Equipment was sparse,
consisting of only essential clothing, a small stool, decoys, spear, line, and
knife. While fishing, a multi-pronged spear was attached to a short line and
kept within arm's reach. To attract fish, fishermen sat or knelt above the hole
and slowly jigged a wooden fish decoy.

When a fish came into view, the fisherman carefully took aim and launched the
spear. Fishermen usually aimed for the back of the head, hoping to disable the
fish quickly. If the strike was successful, the fish was hoisted up with the
line and placed outside the hut on the ice.

Modern Darkhouse Spearfishing

Darkhouse spearfishing is allowed in a few U.S. states. Regulations vary from
state to state, with most allowing the spearing of northern pike and rough fish.